The history of Crest Pontoons in DeKalb, Illinois stretches back over 60 years, making it one of the oldest and most well-established businesses in the area. Founded in 1957 by Charles Heintzeman Sr., Crest Pontoons originally began as a small family-owned company that specialized in manufacturing aluminum pontoon boats for recreational use on nearby lakes and rivers. At the time, pontoons were not seen as a luxury item but rather a practical means of transportation for fishermen and hunters. However, with his entrepreneurial spirit and innovative designs, Heintzeman saw the potential for pontoon boats to become more than just workhorses on the water. He set out to create a line of premium pontoon boats that would appeal to families looking for an enjoyable day out on the lake. Under Heintzeman’s leadership, Crest Pontoons quickly gained popularity among boaters in DeKalb and surrounding areas. The company's reputation grew thanks to its commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. In fact, many customers became repeat buyers after experiencing firsthand the durability and performance of their Crest Pontoon boat. As word spread about this local gem producing top-quality pontoons at affordable prices, demand increased exponentially. To meet this growing demand, Charles' son Mickey joined the business full-time after graduating from college with an engineering degree. With his expertise in design and production processes combined with his father’s vision for innovation, they were able to expand their product line beyond basic recreational models into more luxurious options. In addition to expanding their product line through new models such as fishing pontoons or double-decker party barges equipped with waterslides and wet bars – Crest also invested heavily in research and development efforts to stay ahead of industry trends while maintaining its high standard of quality. This continuous effort towards growth paid off when Crest Pontoons won several prestigious awards including “Best Value” by Boating Magazine and “Top Quality” by Pontoon & Deck Boat Magazine. These achievements solidified Crest’s position as a leader in the pontoon boat market not just in DeKalb, but also nationwide. In 2015, Crest Pontoons was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – one of the world's largest marine manufacturers with brands such as Mercury Marine and Sea Ray under its umbrella. This acquisition brought additional resources to help further expand production capabilities while maintaining Crest’s core values of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Today, Crest Pontoons remains headquartered in DeKalb and has grown into a multi-million dollar company. Its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility spans over 200,000 square feet and employs over 300 people from the local community. The company continues to be family-owned with Charles’ grandson Brad Heintzeman now leading as President. Crest Pontoons has come a long way since its humble beginnings in DeKalb all those years ago. Its success is testament to the hard work and dedication of three generations of Heintzemans who have continued to build on their founder's legacy. The brand has become synonymous with quality pontoons that offer both luxury and affordability – making it a popular choice for boaters not only in Illinois but across the country. Moreover, beyond providing top-notch products for recreational use on waterways everywhere – Crest Pontoons is also committed to giving back to their community through various philanthropic efforts including supporting local charities and sponsoring events that promote environmental conservation on lakes and rivers. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons' history in DeKalb is one filled with growth, success, and innovation. From its small beginnings as a family-owned business producing practical pontoons for fishermen - it has evolved into an industry leader known for its high-quality boats that cater to diverse needs of today's boating enthusiasts. As we look towards the future, there is no doubt that this iconic brand will continue to thrive and leave a lasting impression on the boating industry in DeKalb and beyond.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of luxurious and high-performance pontoon boats. For over 60 years, the company has been dedicated to providing customers with top-quality, innovative designs that offer both comfort and functionality. The history of Crest Pontoons dates back to 1957 when it was founded by David C. Heiney in Owosso, Michigan. It started as a small family-owned business producing aluminum pontoons for local fishermen and vacationers on nearby lakes. As the demand for these versatile watercrafts grew, so did Crest's reputation for excellence in design and construction. Today, Crest Pontoons is owned by Maurell Products Company and operates out of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Owosso. The company's commitment to quality remains unchanged as they continue to push boundaries with their innovative designs and advanced technology. One of the key features that sets Crest Pontoons apart from its competitors is their patented "Waveglider" triple tube hull design. This unique feature offers superior stability, handling, and performance compared to traditional two-tube pontoon models. The Waveglider design also allows for increased weight capacity without sacrificing speed or maneuverability. In addition to their cutting-edge hull design, all Crest Pontoon models are built using premium materials such as marine-grade aluminum alloy tubes and stainless steel hardware. This ensures durability against harsh weather conditions while maintaining an elegant appearance. Crest Pontoons offers a wide range of models suitable for any boating enthusiast's needs – from relaxing sunset cruises to high-speed watersports activities. Their lineup includes fishing pontoons equipped with live wells and rod holders, luxury cruising models with plush seating options, as well as sportier vessels designed specifically for wakeboarding or skiing. One notable model in the Crest Pontoon lineup is the Caribbean Platinum series which showcases luxurious amenities such as custom upholstery options including soft-touch vinyl seats with diamond stitching, a Bluetooth-enabled stereo system with premium speakers, and an LED-lit cup holder. The Caribbean Platinum series also features an extended rear deck with swim platform and ladder for easy access to the water. Another popular model is the Crest Savannah series which offers a more spacious layout with ample seating options and storage compartments. It also comes equipped with a built-in cooler, sink, and electric grill making it perfect for entertaining guests on the water. Crest Pontoons' commitment to innovation extends beyond design as they continue to incorporate advanced technology into their boats. For example, their models come equipped with Simrad navigation systems that offer real-time GPS tracking, depth sounders, and fish finders. This not only enhances safety but also makes navigating unfamiliar waters easier. The company's dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in their exceptional warranty program – offering up to ten years of coverage on structural components and five years on all other parts including flooring materials and upholstery. This level of support instills confidence in customers knowing that they are investing in a reliable product backed by a reputable company. Aside from producing top-quality boats, Crest Pontoons also prioritizes environmental sustainability through its green initiatives such as utilizing recycled aluminum scrap during manufacturing processes and using eco-friendly paint coatings. In addition, the company has partnered with organizations such as Clean Boating Foundation to promote responsible boating practices among its customers. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has established itself as a leader in the pontoon industry through its commitment to excellence in design, construction quality, innovative technology integration, and dedication towards customer satisfaction. With over six decades of experience under their belt coupled with continuous advancements in boat-building techniques - it's no surprise that Crest Pontoons continues to be one of the most trusted names when it comes to luxury pontoons boats today.

Crest Pontoons, formerly known as Crest Marine LLC, has a rich history that dates back to 1957 in DeKalb, Illinois. The company was founded by Bud Clark and Lee Kiefer with the goal of providing affordable and quality boats for recreational use. At its inception, the company focused on producing small fishing boats made from aluminum. However, as the demand for leisure boating increased in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Crest Marine shifted its focus to pontoon boats. In the early years of producing pontoons, Crest Marine faced various challenges such as limited resources and competition from larger boat manufacturers. Despite these obstacles, the company persevered and continued to improve their designs and production processes. By investing in research and development, Crest Marine was able to introduce innovative features such as all-aluminum construction and full-length M-brackets that enhanced durability and stability of their pontoons. These advancements helped establish Crest Pontoons' reputation for building high-quality boats. In addition to technical improvements, Crest Pontoons also expanded its product line over time. In 1986 they introduced their first luxury model called "The Caribbean," which featured plush seating arrangements and premium amenities like a wet bar. This marked a turning point for the company's image from an economical brand to a more upscale one. As demand continued to grow for pontoon boats throughout the United States in the following decades, so did Crest Pontoons' success. In 1998 they moved into a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in DeKalb which allowed them to increase production capacity while maintaining high-quality standards. Today,Crest Pontoons is recognized as one of the leading manufacturers of pontoon boats in North America with dealerships across Canada,Mexico,and Australia.Their product line includes various models ranging from budget-friendly options,to luxurious yachts offering top-of-the-line features,such as the Crest Continental and Savannah models. Despite various challenges in the industry, such as economic downturns and changes in consumer preferences, Crest Pontoons has remained a strong competitor by continuously innovating their designs and production processes. They have also expanded their market reach globally while maintaining their headquarters and manufacturing facility in DeKalb, Illinois. In 2014,Crest Marine LLC was acquired by Polaris Industries Inc.,a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles.This partnership has allowed for further investments in research and development,and has enabled Crest Pontoons to continue offering high-quality boats with cutting-edge features. Today,Crest Pontoons remains committed to its founding principles of providing affordable,personalized,and durable pontoons that enhance the boating experience for all customers.With over six decades of experience,Crest Pontoons continues to be a leader in the pontoon boat industry,and its legacy continues to thrive in DeKalb,Illinois.

DeKalb, Illinois is a charming city located in the northern region of the state. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving community. With a population of over 44,000 people, DeKalb offers a small-town feel with all the amenities of a larger city. The history of DeKalb dates back to the early 1800s when it was settled by French fur traders. The area quickly grew as more settlers arrived and established farms. In 1837, the town was officially named DeKalb after Baron Johann de Kalb, a German-born American Revolutionary War hero. One of the most significant events in DeKalb's history was the arrival of Northern Illinois University (NIU) in 1895. This prestigious university has played an integral role in shaping the city into what it is today. NIU brings thousands of students to DeKalb each year and contributes greatly to its economy. Today, DeKalb is home to many industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and technology. Some major companies that have operations in DeKalb include Nestle USA Inc., Target Corporation Distribution Center, Monsanto Company Seed Corn Production Plant,and HyVee Grocery Store Distribution Center. In addition to its strong economic base,Northern Illinois University also adds cultural diversity tothe city.DeKalbis home to various ethnicities which are reflected throughits vibrant arts sceneand festivals.Festivals like Corn Fest,a celebrationof local agriculture held every Labor Day Weekendand Artigras,a festivalcelebrating art,music,and foodheld every springbringthe community togetherin celebrationof theirrich heritageand diversity.Itis also worth notingthatDeKalis consideredto be oneofthe birthplacesof barbed wirea revolutionary inventionthat shaped modernfarming techniques.TheBarbed Wire Museumlocatedin downtownDeKalcaptures this importantpartofthecity'shistory. One of the most notable landmarks in DeKalb is the Egyptian Theatre. Built-in 1929, this historical theater has been a source of entertainment for generations. It was originally built as a movie palace and later transformed into an iconic live performance venue. Today, it hosts various events such as concerts, plays, dance performances,and film screenings. In addition to its rich history and diverse culture, DeKalb also offers a wide range of recreational activities for its residents and visitors. The city has over 44 parks with amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields,and walking trails. One of the most popular parks is Hopkins Park which features an outdoor pool,splash pad,and skate park. For those interested in history and nature,the Midwest Museumof Natural Historyis a must-visit attraction.The museum houses exhibits on dinosaurs,fossils,minerals,aquatic lifeand much more.It also offers educational programsfor childrenand adultsalike,makingit an ideal destinationfor families.Another popular attractionisthe Ellwood HouseMuseum& Parkwhichwas once home to oneofDeKalb'smost influentialfamilies.Toursare availabletoexplorethis beautifullypreserved mansionandsurrounding gardensfilledwith artifactsfrom themid-1800s. DeKalis also known for its strong sense of community spirit.The cityhosts numerouscommunity events throughout theyear,such asthe annual Turkey Trot5K Run/Walkon Thanksgiving Day,to raise fundsfor local charities.Other community initiativesinclude Volapaloozaa volunteer-drivenmusic festivalaimed at giving backto the community through musicand Rockford Rescue Ministrieswhichprovides shelterand supportto homeless individualsin need.During timesof crisisor disaster,the peopleof DeKalbalso come together to offer support and assistance to those affected.This strong sense of unity and compassion make DeKalb not just a great place to visit but also a wonderful place to call home. In conclusion, DeKalb, Illinois is a hidden gem in the heart of the Midwest. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. From its strong economic base to its diverse community and rich heritage,the city has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences or simply want to immerse yourself in a warm and welcoming community, DeKalb is the place to be. So next time you plan your travels around Illinois,don't forget to add DeKalbto your list,you won't regret it!

Introduction Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of high-quality pontoon boats. The company was founded in 1957 and has since become one of the most recognized names in the marine industry. With over six decades of experience, Crest Pontoons has established a reputation for innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. In this paper, we will explore the history of Crest Pontoons and how it has evolved to become the successful company it is today. Early Years: Founding of Crest Pontoon Boats The story of Crest Pontoons begins in Owosso, Michigan when brothers Dave and Joe Gutierrez purchased a small boat manufacturing company called Owosso Marine Inc. in 1955. Two years later, they renamed the company to "Crest Pontoon Boats" after their first product – an aluminum pontoon boat with wooden decks that resembled a crest on its side. At that time, pontoon boats were mainly used as workboats or fishing platforms due to their stability on water. However, David Gutierrez saw potential for recreational use and decided to focus on building luxury pontoons with comfortable seating options instead. Innovation through Design David's vision paid off as he introduced new designs like larger sizes with wrap-around couches and built-in coolers that made them perfect for leisurely cruising or parties on water. This approach helped distinguish Crest from other manufacturers who focused solely on functionality rather than comfort. As demand grew for these luxurious pontoons throughout the 1960s and '70s, so did competition from other companies trying to mimic their success. To stay ahead of competitors, David continuously experimented with innovative ideas such as adding fiberglass decks instead of wood ones which reduced maintenance requirements while increasing durability. Expansion into New Markets By the late 1970s/early '80s,Crest Pontoon Boats had gained significant popularity among boaters seeking relaxation out at sea. The company expanded its product line to include "Fun Barges" – oversized pontoons with slides, diving boards, and trampolines for recreational use. This move helped Crest tap into the growing market of family-oriented boaters. In 1986, David Gutierrez sold Crest Pontoon Boats to Brunswick Corporation but stayed on as a consultant for several years. Under new ownership, the company continued to grow by expanding its offerings to include fishing boats and houseboats under the brand names Sea Nymph and PlayCraft respectively. The Turn of the Century: New Ownership In 2001, Crest Pontoon Boats was acquired by Genmar Holdings Inc., one of the world's largest boat manufacturers at that time. With this acquisition came significant changes in design and manufacturing processes which resulted in improved quality control measures while maintaining David Gutierrez's vision for luxury pontoon boats. Genmar Holdings Inc. renamed Crest Pontoon Boats as "Crest Marine" in 2004 to reflect its diverse range of products that included not only pontoons but also deck boats, kayaks, canoes and other small watercraft. Modern Day Success In 2010,Crest Marine was acquired by Correct Craft – a leading manufacturer in ski/wakeboard boats since 1925. This acquisition marked a significant milestone for Crest Pontoons as it now had access to advanced technologies used by Correct Craft like CAD/CAM software and CNC machining equipment which enabled them to produce high-quality pontoons more efficiently. Correct Craft also brought a strong focus on customer satisfaction through their program called Customer Care Excellence (CCE) which ensures all aspects of customer service are met from pre-sales inquiries to after-sales support. Today,Crest Pontoons offers an extensive lineup of luxury pontoons ranging from entry-level models such as Classic LX Series up to high-end options like Caribbean Platinum Lounger Series equipped with state-of-the-art features like touchscreen controls and premium sound systems. Conclusion Crest Pontoons' journey from a small boat manufacturing company in Michigan to becoming one of the most recognized names in the marine industry is truly remarkable. The company's commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction has been key to its success over the years. With Correct Craft as its parent company,Crest Pontoons continues to set new standards for luxury pontoons with advanced technologies and a strong focus on customer service. As we look towards the future, it will be exciting to see what new innovations Crest Pontoons will bring to the boating world.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of premium pontoon boats, known for their high-quality construction and innovative designs. The company was founded in 1957 by Charles Sanger and George McConaghy Jr., two avid boaters who saw the potential for a new type of recreational boat. Sanger and McConaghy started out building wooden sailboats, but soon shifted their focus to pontoons after seeing the growing popularity of these versatile vessels. They began manufacturing aluminum pontoons, which proved to be more durable and easier to maintain than wood. In the early years, Crest Pontoons focused on producing basic models with simple layouts. However, as demand for pontoon boats grew, they started incorporating more features and amenities into their designs. In 1965, Crest introduced its first fiberglass deck model – the Marquis – which set a new standard for luxury in the industry. Throughout the 1970s and ‘80s, Crest Pontoons continued to innovate with new materials and design elements. They were one of the first companies to use marine-grade carpeting on their decks instead of traditional vinyl flooring. They also developed unique features like rotomolded seat bases and foam-filled U-shaped logs that provided added buoyancy and stability. In 1991, Crest Pontoons was acquired by Genmar Industries (now part of Brunswick Corporation), bringing even more resources and expertise to help expand its product line. This led to further advancements in technology such as computer-aided design (CAD) software used in boat production. Today, Crest continues to push boundaries with cutting-edge engineering techniques that result in lighter-weight yet stronger boats capable of handling bigger engines while maintaining fuel efficiency. The company’s current lineup includes over 20 different models ranging from compact fishing pontoons to luxurious party barges equipped with everything from wet bars to waterslides. In recent years, Crest has also embraced environmental responsibility by using eco-friendly materials and implementing sustainable manufacturing practices. They were one of the first pontoon manufacturers to offer an electric propulsion option, further demonstrating their commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the boating industry. Throughout its history, Crest Pontoons has remained a family-owned business dedicated to providing customers with the best possible boating experience. The company’s passion for innovation and quality craftsmanship has earned it a loyal following among both recreational boaters and commercial clients such as resorts and rental companies. From humble beginnings building wooden sailboats to becoming one of the most respected names in the marine industry, Crest Pontoons continues to evolve and set new standards for excellence in pontoon design. With over 60 years of experience behind them, they are poised to remain a leader in this market for many years to come.

DeKalb, Illinois is a small city located in Northern Illinois. With a population of just over 43,000 people, it may seem like an inconspicuous place on the map. However, DeKalb has a rich history that dates back centuries and has played an important role in shaping the state of Illinois. The story of DeKalb begins with its Native American inhabitants. The area was originally home to several tribes, including the Potawatomi and Ojibwe peoples. These tribes lived off the land and used the resources around them for survival. They hunted deer and other game animals for food, built homes out of nearby trees and plants, and cultivated crops for sustenance. In 1835, Jacob Haish arrived in what is now known as DeKalb County. He was one of the first white settlers in the area and established his homestead near present-day downtown DeKalb. Haish's presence brought more settlers to the region as word spread about fertile farmland and opportunities for growth. One year later in 1836, Joseph Flanders purchased land from Haish to establish a post office which he named "Dekalbtown." This marked the official beginning of DeKalb's development as a town. Throughout this time period, there were conflicts between white settlers moving into Native American territory leading up to what would become known as The Black Hawk War in 1832. After years of fighting between U.S soldiers led by General Winfield Scott against Chief Black Hawk’s Sauk tribe warriors who fought with their allies, Haish became prominent businessman during this time period due to his successful blacksmith operation that provided weapons for U.S soldiers fighting against Native Americans during The Black Hawk War (Richter). By 1850s Dekalbtown had grown significantly thanks largely due to its strategic location along major trade routes connecting Chicago with Galena via stagecoach. It was a major stop for travelers and merchants alike, boosting the local economy. In 1856, DeKalb officially became a city and its name was changed to "DeKalb." The new name is derived from Johann de Kalb, a German military officer who fought alongside American troops during the Revolutionary War. This change reflected the growing influence of European settlers in the area. The late 19th century saw significant industrial growth in DeKalb, fueled by the arrival of several railroads that connected it to other parts of Illinois and beyond. This led to an influx of new businesses and industries such as grain mills, foundries, and factories producing agricultural equipment. These developments helped establish DeKalb as an important manufacturing hub within the state. One notable company that emerged during this time period was barbed wire manufacturer Joseph Glidden & Company. In 1873, Joseph Glidden invented barbed wire at his farm just outside of DeKalb (Chicago Tribune). This invention revolutionized agriculture in America by making it easier for farmers to fence off their land and protect their crops from roaming animals. The early 20th century brought more growth to DeKalb with improvements in transportation infrastructure such as paved roads and streetcars connecting different parts of the city (Cityofdekalbil.org). The population continued to grow along with economic development spurred by companies like Northern Illinois Gas Company (now known as Nicor) which established its headquarters in DeKalbbulbsrbanization.ral Electric also opened a factory here. During World War II, several military camps were set up around DeKalb including Camp Grant near Rockford which housed over 50 thousand soldiers at its peak (Campgrantmuseum.com). This brought job opportunities for locals who worked at these camps or provided goods and services for them. After the war ended, many soldiers chose to settle down in DeKlabb due to its peaceful and welcoming community. In the second half of the 20th century, DeKalb continued to develop as a diverse and thriving city. Northern Illinois University (NIU) was founded in 1895 and has played a crucial role in shaping DeKalb's identity. With over 18,000 students enrolled today, NIU is one of the largest employers in the city and provides numerous cultural, educational, and economic opportunities for its residents. DeKalb has also been home to several significant events throughout its history. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower visited DeKalb to dedicate a new U.S post office building (The Daily Chronicle). In more recent years, DeKalb hosted presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain during their campaigns in 2008 (The Daily Chronicle). Today, DeKalb continues to thrive with a strong economy supported by various industries including agriculture, manufacturing, education, healthcare services,and retail trade. The city also boasts multiple parks and recreational areas such as Hopkins Park which offers outdoor activities like hiking trails,camping sites,fishing ponds,basketball courts,and playgrounds for families. In conclusion,today’s modern day Dekalbb reflects influences from both Native American cultures who originally inhabited this area as well European settlers who later developed it into what we know now.Prominent businesses,historical landmarks,and cultural diversity all contribute towards making Dekalbb an integral part of Illinois' history.With its strong past,present achievements,and future potential,it is clear that Dekalbb will continue to play an important role in shaping Northern Illinois for generations to come.

DeKalb is a city located in northern Illinois, approximately 65 miles west of Chicago. It is the county seat of DeKalb County and has a population of over 44,000 residents. The area now known as DeKalb was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi and Winnebago. In 1835, two brothers from New York named John and Isaac Fisk traveled to the area and established a trading post along the Kishwaukee River. They also built a sawmill near present-day downtown DeKalb. In 1851, Daniel Pierce founded the town of DeKalb on land he purchased from the Fisk brothers. The town was named after Johann de Kalb, a German soldier who fought for America during the Revolutionary War. The same year, Northern Illinois University (NIU) was founded as Northern Illinois Normal School to train teachers. The arrival of railroads in the mid-19th century greatly contributed to DeKalb's growth and development. The Galena & Chicago Union Railroad (later known as Chicago & North Western Railway) established its depot in DeKalb in 1854, making it an important transportation hub for both people and goods. During World War II, NIU served as an army training center for soldiers before they were deployed overseas. After the war ended, many returning soldiers used their GI Bill benefits to attend college at NIU or find employment in local businesses that had expanded due to increased demand during wartime. In recent decades, DeKalb has experienced economic growth through various industries such as manufacturing (notably with auto parts manufacturer BorgWarner), healthcare (with Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital), agriculture (through farming cooperatives like CHS Inc.), education (with NIU), and technology/innovation (through initiatives like Innovation Network). Today,Dekalbis home to diverse communities including students from around the world attending NIU, as well as a growing Latino population. The city also has a thriving arts and cultural scene, with events like the Corn Fest, ARTigras, and Egyptian Theatre performances. In 2008, DeKalb was hit by a devastating tornado that caused widespread damage to homes and businesses. The community came together to rebuild and help those affected by the disaster. DeKalb's history is preserved in several historic sites throughout the city. These include the Ellwood House Museum (a Victorian mansion built in 1879), Joseph F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center (the home of barbed wire inventor Joseph Glidden), and Downtown DeKalb Historic District (listed on the National Register of Historic Places). Overall, DeKalb has evolved from its humble beginnings as a trading post into a vibrant city with strong ties to education, agriculture, industry, and community. Its rich history continues to shape its present while paving the way for future growth and development.

Crest Pontoons is a well-known manufacturer and distributor of high-quality pontoon boats, based in DeKalb, Illinois. The company has a long history in the city, dating back to its founding in 1957. Over the years, Crest Pontoons has become an integral part of the local community and has played a significant role in shaping the boating industry. The story of Crest Pontoons began when four friends – George Bertschinger, Bill Fetherston Jr., Jerry Sunleaf, and Bob Barnes – came together with a shared passion for boating. They had been manufacturing small aluminum boats under the name "DeKalb Welded Products" but were looking to expand their business into larger vessels. In 1957, they decided to start building luxury pontoon boats and formed Crest Pontoon Boats Inc. At that time, pontoons were mainly used as workboats or fishing vessels. However, the founders of Crest saw potential in these flat-bottomed boats and believed they could be transformed into recreational crafts suitable for cruising on lakes and rivers. Their vision was to create sturdy yet stylish pontoons that would provide comfort and luxury for their customers. In its early years, Crest Pontoons operated out of a small factory located at 501 West Lincoln Highway in DeKalb. The first model produced by the company was called "the Commodore," which featured plush seats with vinyl covers designed to resemble leather upholstery commonly found on cars during that era. In just two short years after its inception, Crest expanded its product line by introducing another model called "the Seaview." This new boat featured an enclosed cabin area with windows all around giving passengers panoramic views while being shielded from wind and rain. The success of these models helped propel Crest's growth as demand for their products increased rapidly. By 1960s' endearing quality became increasingly popular among leisure-oriented consumers, and Crest Pontoons continued to innovate. They introduced the first "commander" models in 1963 that had a sun deck at the front, providing additional space for lounging and sunbathing. In 1970, they launched their famous "Sport" model with an open bow design that allowed passengers to sit facing forward while cruising. Crest's popularity extended beyond DeKalb as its reputation for producing high-quality boats spread across the country. The company expanded its operations by building a new factory on Taylor Street in DeKalb in 1978. This allowed them to increase production capacity and cater to the growing demand for their products. In addition to expanding their physical presence, Crest also grew its product line throughout the years. In 1982, they introduced fiberglass pontoons which offered improved performance on water compared to aluminum ones. This was followed by another innovation – inflatable pontoons – which were lighter and easier to transport. The early 2000s marked a significant milestone for Crest Pontoons as it became part of Maurell Products Corporation under the leadership of CEO Patrick J Kloppe Jr., who is still leading the company today. With this change came even more advancements in boat manufacturing techniques such as robotic welding technology that increased precision and efficiency during production. Today, Crest Pontoons continues with its tradition of excellence by producing innovative pontoon boats using top-of-the-line materials and state-of-the-art technology. The company offers a wide range of models suitable for different types of boating experiences – from leisurely cruises on calm waters to adventurous excursions on rough seas. Not only has Crest played a vital role in shaping the boating industry but it has also been an integral part of DeKalb's economy over six decades now. The company employs hundreds of local residents who take great pride in being part of such an iconic brand. Moreover, Crest Pontoons has always been committed to giving back to the DeKalb community. The company has sponsored local events and charities, including the annual "Fishing for Freedom" tournament that raises funds for veterans' organizations. Crest also supports environmental initiatives such as lake clean-ups and promotes responsible boating practices. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons is more than just a manufacturer of luxury pontoon boats – it is a testament to the American dream. From its humble beginnings in 1957, the company has grown into an industry leader with a strong presence in DeKalb and beyond. With continuous innovation and dedication to quality, Crest Pontoons will undoubtedly continue to be a driving force in the boating world for many years to come.

Introduction Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of luxury pontoons in the United States. Founded in 1957, Crest has been providing high-quality and innovative pontoons for over 60 years. The company is known for its attention to detail, superior craftsmanship, and commitment to customer satisfaction. In this paper, we will explore the history of Crest Pontoons, their manufacturing process, and their range of products. History The story of Crest Pontoons began in Owosso, Michigan when Dave Hagerman founded the company with his father-in-law D.W. “Wally” Wallace in 1957. They started with building aluminum pontoon boats for fishing on local lakes. As demand grew for more comfortable recreational boats, they shifted their focus towards luxury pontoons. In the early 1960s, Crest introduced a new design that featured an all-welded aluminum frame instead of rivets or screws used by other manufacturers at the time. This made their pontoons stronger and more durable than others on the market. By the late 1960s, Crest had established itself as one of the top manufacturers of luxury pontoons in America. In fact, it was during this time that they coined themselves as "the Cadillac of Pontoon Boats." Their reputation continued to grow throughout the following decades as they expanded their product line and incorporated new technologies into their designs. Manufacturing Process Crest's manufacturing process begins with cutting sheets of marine-grade aluminum into specific sizes using state-of-the-art computerized machines. These sheets are then bent into shape using CNC press brakes to create tubes that form the foundation of each pontoon boat. Next comes welding where experienced craftsmen weld together each tube to create a solid structure before attaching deck sections and cross-members onto them using heavy-duty brackets made from marine-grade stainless steel. Afterward comes painting where each pontoon goes through several stages including sandblasting, acid washing, and multiple coats of primer before finally receiving a high-quality paint finish. This process ensures that the pontoons are protected from corrosion and remain looking new for years to come. Once the pontoon tubes are complete, they are fitted with furniture and accessories such as seating, tables, bimini tops, and electronic systems in accordance with customer preferences. Crest offers a wide range of customization options allowing customers to design their dream pontoon boat. Products Crest Pontoons has an extensive product line that caters to different needs and budgets. Their Classic Series features traditional designs while their Caribbean Series offers more luxurious options with sleek modern styling. The Savannah series is perfect for those seeking premium comfort on the water while the Continental models offer ultimate luxury with amenities like hot tubs and swim-up bars. In addition to these main series, Crest also offers specialized models such as fishing pontoons in their Angler series or compact yet versatile boats in their Cruiser series. They also have a line of electric pontoons called e-Pontoon which provides eco-friendly boating experience without compromising on performance. One notable feature of all Crest pontoons is their use of patented technology known as “CP3” (Crest Performance 3) which consists of three 25-inch diameter tubes instead of two larger ones used by other manufacturers. This increases stability and improves overall performance even at high speeds. Conclusion In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has established itself as a leader in luxury pontoon manufacturing through its dedication to quality craftsmanship and innovation over the past six decades. With an excellent reputation among boaters across America for superior products backed by exceptional customer service, it’s no wonder why many consider them "the Cadillac" of Pontoon Boats." As we look towards the future, there is no doubt that Crest will continue to set new standards in the industry with its commitment to excellence.